Former NFL Lineman Tre' Johnson Dies at 54

The ex-Washington player became a high school history teacher after his football career.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Tre' Johnson, a former standout offensive lineman for the Washington NFL team who later became a high school history teacher in Maryland, has died at the age of 54. Johnson's wife announced his sudden and unexpected passing during a family trip.

Why it matters

Johnson's death is a tragic loss for his family, friends, and the communities he was involved with through his football career and teaching work. As a Pro Bowl player who transitioned to an education role, his life story resonated with many.

The details

After a successful college career at Temple University, Johnson was drafted 31st overall by Washington in 1994. He played for the team through 2000, made the Pro Bowl in 1999, and had a final NFL season with Washington in 2002 after a year with the Cleveland Browns. Following his football career, Johnson became a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland, but had recently taken a leave of absence due to health issues.

  • Johnson died on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
  • He played for Washington from 1994 to 2000.
  • Johnson made the Pro Bowl in 1999.
  • He played for Cleveland in 2001 and returned to Washington for the 2002 season.

The players

Tre' Johnson

A former standout offensive lineman who played for the Washington NFL team from 1994 to 2002, including a Pro Bowl selection in 1999. After his football career, he became a high school history teacher in Maryland.

Irene Johnson

Tre' Johnson's wife, who announced his sudden and unexpected passing on Facebook.

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What they’re saying

“It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that my husband, Tre' Johnson, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly … during a brief family trip. His four children, Chloe, EJ, EZ and Eden, extended family, friends, and I are devastated and in shock.”

— Irene Johnson, Tre' Johnson's Wife (Facebook)

The takeaway

Tre' Johnson's life and career exemplified the ability to excel in both professional sports and education, making positive impacts in multiple communities. His sudden passing at a young age is a tragic loss felt by all who knew him.